Japan Winter Holiday Survival Guide: Essential Tips for Travel in December & January ❄️🗾
- Mako
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Japan in winter is truly magical. From the stunning illuminations in Tokyo to the powder snow in Hokkaido and the crisp, clear views of Mount Fuji, it is a spectacular time to visit.
However, travelling during the end-of-year season—specifically Christmas and New Year's—comes with a unique set of challenges that catch many tourists off guard. The period known as おしょうがつ (Oshoogatsu) (New Year) is the most significant holiday in the Japanese calendar, and it brings the country to a standstill.
To ensure your holiday trip is smooth and stress-free, here is your essential survival guide for travelling Japan in December and January.
1. The Great New Year’s Shutdown (Dec 29 – Jan 3)🏯
Unlike in Australia or the West, where shops often reopen quickly after Christmas, Japan shuts down for New Year.
The Dates: Expect closures from roughly December 29th to January 3rd.
What Closes: Government offices, banks, museums, smaller family-run restaurants, and boutique shops will likely be closed.
What stays Open: Major convenience stores (Konbini), large department stores (usually closed only on Jan 1st), and major chain restaurants generally stay open.
The Fix: Check the websites of specific museums or attractions you want to visit in advance. If you have a specific restaurant in mind, book a reservation weeks ahead or have a "Plan B" (like a trusty Konbini meal!).
2. Cash is King (Especially Now) 💴
While Japan is becoming more card-friendly, the New Year period is risky for cashless travellers.
ATM Closures: Historically, some bank ATMs go offline for maintenance during the New Year holidays. While convenience store ATMs (7-Eleven, Lawson) usually accept international cards 24/7, it is safer not to rely on them entirely.
The Fix: Withdraw enough cash (Yen) before December 28th to last you through the first few days of January. Having cash on hand is also essential for giving offerings at shrines during New Year visits.
3. Cultural Reality Check: Christmas vs. New Year
It is important to manage your expectations regarding holiday traditions, as they are likely the opposite of what you are used to.
Christmas (Dec 24/25): This is not a public holiday. It is considered a romantic time for couples (like Valentine's Day). Don't expect a turkey dinner; the local tradition is actually eating KFC and strawberry shortcake!
New Year (Jan 1-3): This is the time for quiet family gatherings. The streets may feel quieter than usual as people return to their hometowns.
4. Join the Crowds for Hatsumoode ⛩️
If you are in Japan on January 1st, do not stay in your hotel! Join the locals for はつもうで(Hatsumoode)—the first shrine visit of the year.
It is a massive cultural event where millions of people visit shrines to pray for good luck in the coming year.
Where to go: Meiji Jingu (Tokyo) and Fushimi Inari (Kyoto) are spectacular but incredibly crowded. For a more intimate experience, find a smaller neighbourhood shrine.
What to do: Throw a coin into the offering box, bow, clap, pray, and buy an おみくじ(Omikuji) (fortune slip) to see what 2026 holds for you.
5. Transport: Book Early and Pack Light 🚅
The holidays are the peak travel season for locals visiting family.
Shinkansen (Bullet Trains): Reserved seats sell out fast. If you are travelling between Dec 26 and Jan 4, book your tickets as soon as they go on sale (usually one month in advance).
📌Shinkansen booking: https://smart-ex.jp/en/lp/app/
Luggage: Delivery services (たっきゅうびん: Takuhaibin) are a traveller's best friend, but they get overwhelmed during the holidays.
📌Yamato Transport: https://www.global-yamato.com/en/hands-free-travel/
The Fix: If sending luggage between cities, allow 2–3 days for delivery instead of the usual overnight service. Pack a carry-on with essentials just in case.
6. Shop the Fukubukuro (Lucky Bags) 🛍️
If you love shopping, January 1st and 2nd are paradise. Department stores sell ふくぶくろ(Fukubukuro) (Lucky Bags)—sealed bags sold at a fixed price containing items worth double or triple the cost. You won't know exactly what is inside, but that is part of the fun! It’s a great way to snag high-quality Japanese goods or fashion at a bargain.
🗣️ Don't Just Survive—Connect!
Navigating the holiday rush is much easier when you can ask for help, read basic signs, and greet locals with a proper "あけましておめでとうございます。(Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu)" (Happy New Year).🎍
Don't let the language barrier add stress to your winter holiday. Before you fly, practise your essential travel phrases with a native speaker who can teach you the cultural nuances of the festive season.
✈️ Ready for your winter adventure? Stop guessing and start speaking! Book a FREE trial lesson with our native teachers today. We’ll help you practise ordering food, asking for directions, and navigating Japan like a pro.
Comments